Buriram: "Nong Bua Pichaya FC Academy" emerged victorious, securing their fourth Northeastern regional championship title, while "Best Academy" took the runner-up position. Both teams will advance to the national championship final of the "Chang Junior Cup 2026".According to Thai News Agency, the "Chang Junior Cup 2026" is a youth football tournament created by "Chang Natural Mineral Water" to support young players under 13 years old in Thailand. The competition aims to develop young talent and discover the best team in the country. The winner will receive the "Most Talented Player" award and two "Sportsmanship Awards," along with the opportunity to participate in a world-class tournament in England.The Northeastern region's qualifying round 5 took place from May 8-10, 2026, at the Chang Training Ground in Buriram Province, featuring 49 teams. The final match was attended by Mr. Chaisri Rawang from Chang Natural Mineral Water and other distinguished guests who presented the awards.In the finals, "Academ y Nongbua Pichaya FC," previously a 3rd place finisher in 2019 and three-time qualifying round champion, faced off against "Best Academy," a new team from Buriram. "Academy Nongbua Pichaya FC" continued their winning streak, defeating "Best Academy" 2-0, securing the Northeast Zone championship, along with a trophy and scholarships. Both teams now advance to the Thailand National Championship.The "Chang Junior Cup 2026" is a joint effort by the Football Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage, Leicester City Football Club, Bootroom Co., Ltd., and Molten (Thailand) Co., Ltd., aiming to elevate Thai football to an international level.The final qualifying round for the "Chang Junior Cup 2026" in the Bangkok and surrounding areas is scheduled for May 19-24 at the ThaiBev Football Academy. The top three teams from this round will secure spots in the Thailand National Championship.
